Post Processor editing guide

I found this Vectric Aspire Post Processor editing guide.
The codes should be the same as found in .gee files.
I'm assuming they use a universal coordination system.
It should offer some clue to the inch/mm issue, and at best supply the base to create a 1013 .pp file.

Guide to editing a
Vectric Post
Processor
Version 1.1.1
November 17th 2010
2
Disclaimer
All CNC machines (routing, engraving, and milling) are potentially dangerous and because Vectric Ltd
has no control over how the software described in this document might be used, Vectric Ltd or any
associated Resellers cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage to the work piece, machine or
any individual, howsoever caused by misusing the software. Extreme care should always be taken and
the output from the software thoroughly checked before sending it to a CNC machine.
The information in this manual may be subject to change without any prior notice. The software
described in this manual is supplied under the terms and conditions of the software license agreement
and may only be used in accordance with the terms of this agreement.
Vectric Ltd
Unit 3 Dunstall Court
Astwood Lane
Feckenham
B96 6QH
UK
www.vectric.com
E-mail info@vectric.com
Phone +44 (0) 1527 460 459
Fax +44 (0) 1527 460 459
3
Table of Contents
DOCUMENT REVISION ................................................................................................................................................ 4
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................... 5
WHAT DOES THE POST PROCESSOR DO? ....................................................................................................................... 5
POST PROCESSOR SECTIONS ....................................................................................................................................... 6
File Comments .................................................................................................................................................. 6
Global File Statements...................................................................................................................................... 6
Tape Splitting Support ...................................................................................................................................... 8
Line Terminating Characters ............................................................................................................................ 8
Block Numbering .............................................................................................................................................. 8
VARIABLES .............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Format of Variables ........................................................................................................................................ 11
A Typical Variable ........................................................................................................................................... 12
Formatting the Output Value ......................................................................................................................... 12
Optional Format Flags .................................................................................................................................... 13
Default Formatting for Variables ................................................................................................................... 14
MULTIPLIER VALUE ................................................................................................................................................. 19
POST PROCESSOR BLOCKS ........................................................................................................................................ 20
HEADER .......................................................................................................................................................... 20
TOOLCHANGE ................................................................................................................................................. 21
NEW_SEGMENT .............................................................................................................................................. 21
INITIAL_RAPID_MOVE .................................................................................................................................... 21
RAPID_MOVE.................................................................................................................................................. 22
FIRST_FEED_MOVE ......................................................................................................................................... 22
FEED_MOVE ................................................................................................................................................... 22
FIRST_CW_ARC_MOVE ................................................................................................................................... 22
CW_ARC_MOVE ............................................................................................................................................. 23
FIRST_CCW_ARC_MOVE ................................................................................................................................. 23
CCW_ARC_MOVE ........................................................................................................................................... 23
FOOTER ........................................................................................................................................................... 24
OTHER LESS FREQUENTLY USED SECTIONS. ................................................................................................................... 25
FEED_RATE_CHANGE ..................................................................................................................................... 25
FIRST_PLUNGE_MOVE.................................................................................................................................... 25
PLUNGE_MOVE .............................................................................................................................................. 25
RETRACT_MOVE ............................................................................................................................................. 26
Special Characters .......................................................................................................................................... 27
EDITING A VECTRIC POST PROCESSOR – AN EXAMPLE: ADDING TOOL-CHANGE COMMANDS. ................................................. 28
EDITING A VECTRIC POST PROCESSOR – AN EXAMPLE: CHANGING THE FILE EXTENSION. ...................................................... 33
POST PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DIFFERENT VECTRIC PRODUCTS. ........................................................................ 35
Cut3D (Release 1.025) – Unsupported Commands and Variables .................................................................. 35
PhotoVCarve (Release 1.102) – Unsupported Commands and Variables ....................................................... 35
Cut2D (Release 1.100) – Unsupported Commands and Variables .................................................................. 35
TIPS AND TRICKS. ................................................................................................................................................... 36
POST PROCESSOR NAMING CONVENTIONS. ................................................................................................................. 37
4
Document revision
Revision
Number
Revision Date Reason
1.0.0 July 12th 2009 Written.
1.1.0 October 1st 2009 Documented new post processor features for Aspire V2.5
1.1.1 November 17th 2010 Amended file location for PostP folder in new versions.
5
Introduction
What does the Post Processor Do?
The post processor is the section of the program that converts the XYZ coordinates for the
tool moves into a format that is suitable for a particular router or machine tool.
This document details how to create and edit the configuration files that customize the output from
the program to suit a particular machine control.
Below are sections of a typical program that has been post processed into both G-Code and HPGL.
G-Code example
T1 M6
G17
G0 Z4.5000
G0 X0.0000 Y0.0000 S12000 M3
G0 X2.4567 Y7.8342 Z0.2500
G1 Z-0.0500 F5.0
G3 X3.3784 Y8.7559 I0.0000 J0.9218 F66.0
G3 X2.4567 Y9.6777 I-0.9218 J0.0000
G3 X1.5349 Y8.7559 I0.0000 J-0.9218
…
HPGL-Code example
IN;PA;
PU2496,7960;
PD2496,7960;
AA2496,8896,90.000
AA2496,8896,90.000
AA2496,8896,90.000
AA2496,8896,90.000
PU2496,7960;
PU2496,6096;
…
Machine controller manufacturers will often customize the file format required for programs to run
on a particular machine in order to optimise the control to suit the individual characteristics of that
machine.
The Vectric post processor uses simple text based configuration files, to enable the user to tailor a
configuration file, should they wish to do so.
6
Post Processor Sections
Vectric post processors are broken down into sections to aid clarity, try to write your post processors
in a similar style to aid debugging.
File Comments
A section where you can describe the post processor and record any changes to the post processor,
each line is a comment and starts with a ‘+’ character or a ‘|’ character.
+ History
+ Who When What
+ ======== ========== ===========================
+ Tony 14/07/2006 Written
+ Mark 26/08/2008 Combined ATC commands, stop spindle on TC
+================================================
Global File Statements.
Statements are items that are either used only once, or have static values throughout the file.
Write statement names in upper case letters for clarity.
POST_NAME = "Text Output Arcs (mm) (*.txt)" The name that will appear in the post processor list.
FILE_EXTENSION = "txt" The file extension that the file will be given.
UNITS = "MM" The units that the file outputs (INCHES or MM).
PRINT_DIRECT = "YES" The machine tool manufacturer has supplied a driver (usually a
printer driver), that can directly accept the NC file output.
For an example, see the file: Generic HPGL_Arcs.pp
RAPID_PLUNGE_TO_STARTZ = “YES” Indicates that plunge moves to Plunge (Z2) height
(that is set on the material setup form), are rapid moves.
7
DIRECT_OUTPUT = "Display Name | Manufacturers.Document" The control software
uses a document interface that
can directly accept the NC file
output.
For an example, see the file: Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
ROTARY_WRAP_Y = A The moves in the Y axis are to be wrapped around a
cylinder of the specified diameter. The “Y” values will be
output as “A”
For an example, see the file: Mach2_3-WY_ATC_Arcs_mm.pp
ROTARY_WRAP_X = B The moves in the X axis are to be wrapped around a
cylinder of the specified diameter. The “X” values will be
output as “B”
For an example, see the file: Mach2_3-WX_ATC_Arcs_mm.pp
SPINDLE_SPEED_RANGE = 1 15 4500 15000 Spindle speed for this machine is output as a range
of integer numbers between 1 and 15 representing
the actual speed in RPM of the spindle, (between
4500 and 15000 RPM in the quoted example).
For an example, see the file: Roland_MDX-40_mm.pp
SUBSTITUTE = "O1 S1 O2 S2 On Sn " This command allows you to substitute a character output
within the variables (such as [TOOL_NAME]) and substitute
that character, with another. This feature can be useful for
those cases where particular characters cause errors on an
NC control.
The characters are entered in pairs, Original – Substituted.
For example MACH 3 control software uses parentheses as
comment delimiters, and does not allow nested comments.
Most tools within the Vectric Tool Database have
parentheses within the “Name” section; if these names are
output, this would cause an error within Mach3. The
command SUBSTITUTE = "({)} " would convert the ()
characters to {} characters, and avoid this error.
For an example, see the file: Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
Example: DIRECT_OUTPUT = "Mach|Mach4.Document"
8
Tape Splitting Support
TAPE_SPLITTING = " "
Format is : TAPE_SPLITTING = MAX_NUM_LINES LINE_TOL ”FILENAME_FORMAT” START_INDEX
INDEX_ON_FIRST_FILE
For example a command of TAPE_SPLITTING = 1000 100 "%s_%d.tap" 1 "YES"
would lead to ...
Output will be split into multiple files of a maximum of 1000 lines (+ however many lines in there are
within the footer section of the post processor), if a retract move exists after
line 900 (1000 – 100), the file will be split at that move. If the file was called "toolpath" the split files
would be named toolpath_1.tap, toolpath_2.tap etc. The first toolpath output will be
"toolpath_ 1.tap" there will be no file named "toolpath" without an index number,
(as INDEX_ON_FIRST_FILE= YES is used), unless the file was less than 1000 lines long, in which case
the file would not be split.
For an example, see the file: Busellato_Gen_Arcs_TS_mm.pp
Note: Some controllers that require NC files to be split, also have limitations on
the number of characters within a filename. For example they may require the
file to be named with the MSDOS style 8.3 filename format. This should be
considered when naming the output file.
Line Terminating Characters
LINE_ENDING = "[13][10]"
Decimal values of the characters appended to each separate line of the post processed file. (Will
usually be [13][10], (Carriage return, Line feed) for any controller that can read a windows or MSDOS
format text file.
Block Numbering
If you wish to add line numbers to the output file, the current
line number is added with the variable [N]
LINE_NUMBER_START = 0 Value at which the line numbering should start.
LINE_NUMBER_INCREMENT = 10 Incremental value between line numbers
LINE_NUMBER_MAXIMUM = 999999 Maximum line number to output, before cycling to the
LINE_NUMBER_START value again.
Important - some controllers have a limit to the number
of lines that can be displayed on the control, EG. 65,536
9
Variables
Below is a table of the variables that are available for use within the configuration files.
Variable Name Output using Value Example in file:
FEED_RATE [F] Current Feed Rate. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
CUT_RATE [FC] Current Cut Feed Rate. CNCShark-USB_Arcs_inch.pp
PLUNGE_RATE [FP] Current Plunge Feed Rate. CNCShark-USB_Arcs_inch.pp
SPINDLE_SPEED Current Spindle Speed in R.P.M. GCode_arc_inch.pp
TOOL_NUMBER [T] Current Tool Number. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
PREVIOUS_TOOL_NUMBER [TP] Previous Tool Number. NC-Easy.pp
LINE_NUMBER [N] Current Line Number in file. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
TOOL_NAME [TOOLNAME] Name of Current Tool. MaxNC_inch.pp
TOOLPATH_NAME [TOOLPATH_NAME] Name of Current Toolpath. Viccam_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
TOOLPATH_FILENAME [TP_FILENAME] Filename (Produced by “Save Toolpath(s)”). ez-Router_inch.pp
TOOLPATH_DIR [TP_DIR] Folder Toolpath File was saved to. Woodp_arc_mm.pp
TOOLPATH_EXTENSION [TP_EXT] Toolpath File Extension. TekcelE_Arc_ATC_3D.pp
TOOLPATH_PATHNAME [PATHNAME] Toolpath Folder Pathname. WinPC-NC_ATC_Arcs_mm.pp
X_POSITION [X] Current coordinate of tool position in X axis. GCode_arc_inch.pp
Y_POSITION [Y] Current coordinate of tool position in Y axis. GCode_arc_inch.pp
Z_POSITION [Z] Current coordinate of tool position in Z axis. GCode_arc_inch.pp
ARC_CENTRE_I_INC_POSITION Arc centre in X Axis (relative to last X,Y
position).
Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
ARC_CENTRE_J_INC_POSITION [J] Arc centre in Y Axis (relative to last X,Y
position).
Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
ARC_CENTRE_I_ABS_POSITION [IA] Arc centre in X Axis (absolute coordinates). Isel_arc_mm.pp
ARC_CENTRE_J_ABS_POSITION [JA] Arc centre in Y Axis (absolute coordinates). Isel_arc_mm.pp
ARC_START_X_POSITION [ArcStartX] Start position of an arc in X axis. TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
ARC_START_Y_POSITION [ArcStartY] Start position of an arc in Y axis. TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
ARC_MID_X_POSITION [ArcMidX] Mid-point of arc in X (absolute coordinates). TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
ARC_MID_Y_POSITION [ArcMidY] Mid-point of arc in Y (absolute coordinates). TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
ARC_MID_X_INC_POSITION [ArcMidXI] Mid-point of arc in X (incremental coordinates). TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
ARC_MID_Y_INC_POSITION [ArcMidYI] Mid-point of arc in Y (incremental coordinates). TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
ARC_RADIUS [Radius] The radius of an arc. Bosch_ATC_Arcs_mm.pp
ARC_ANGLE [Angle] Generic HPGL_Arcs.pp
X_HOME_POSITION [XH] Home tool position for X axis. CAMTech_CMC3_mm.pp
Y_HOME_POSITION [YH] Home tool position for Y axis. CAMTech_CMC3_mm.pp
Z_HOME_POSITION [ZH] Home tool position for Z axis. CAMTech_CMC3_mm.pp
SAFE_Z_HEIGHT [SAFEZ] Safe Z Height / Rapid Clearance Gap. EMC2 Arcs(inch)(*.ngc)
WRAP_DIAMETER [WRAP_DIA] Diameter of cylinder that axis is wrapped
around.
Mach2_3-
WY_ATC_Arcs_mm.pp
X_LENGTH [XLENGTH] Length of material in X. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
Y_LENGTH [YLENGTH] Length of material in Y. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
Z_LENGTH [ZLENGTH] Length of material in Z. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
X_MIN [XMIN] Minimum value of material in X. MaxNC_inch.pp
Y_MIN [YMIN] Minimum value of material in Y. MaxNC_inch.pp
Z_MIN [ZMIN] Minimum value of material in Z. MaxNC_inch.pp
X_MAX [XMAX] Maximum value of material in X. MaxNC_inch.pp
Y_MAX [YMAX] Maximum value of material in Y. MaxNC_inch.pp
Z_MAX [ZMAX] Maximum value of material in Z. MaxNC_inch.pp
10
Table of variables – continued.
Variable Name Output using Value Example in file:
X_ORIGIN_POS [X_ORIGIN_POS] Origin Position in X. TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
Y_ORIGIN_POS [Y_ORIGIN_POS] Origin Position in Y. TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
Z_ORIGIN [Z_ORIGIN] Z Zero Position, Table or Material Surface. TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
XY_ORIGIN [XY_ORIGIN] X, Y Origin. TextOutput_Arcs_mm.pp
TOOLS_USED [TOOLS_USED] List of tools used (In order of use). Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
TOOLPATHS_OUTPUT [TOOLPATHS_OUTPUT] List of toolpaths used in file (in order of use). Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
TOOLPATH_NOTES [TOOLPATH_NOTES] Toolpath Notes (Toolpath Control form). Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
FILE_NOTES [FILE_NOTES] File Notes (Edit > Notes). Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
TIME [TIME] File creation time. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
DATE [DATE] File creation date. Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
11
Format of Variables
Values for tool position, feed rates, spindle speeds etc. are inserted into the file using variables.
Variables are used throughout the file; the variables are replaced with the current value for that item
when the file is post processed.
For example, the current X, Y and Z tool positions at any time, are inserted into the file by using the
variable output, [X], [Y] and [Z] respectively.
Write variable names in upper case letters for clarity.
A variable is formatted as follows:
VAR VARIABLE = [VO|WO|CS|VF|MX]
Key:
VO = Variable Output for example, X, XH, F.
WO= When output, A=Always | C= Only when Changed.
CS= Character String output before value.
VF= Value Format, determines the format that the value is output with.
MX= Multiplier Value – See Page 19 for details.
12
A Typical Variable
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 14
VAR Z_HOME_POSITION = [ ZH | A | Z | F 1.0 | -1 ]
1 VAR - This line is a Variable.
2 Variable Name.
3 Equals Sign.
4 Open Square bracket - (start of variable formatting parameters).
5 Variable label - I.E. label that is substituted with the variable value.
6 Vertical Bar - Parameter separator.
7 A= Always output value, C= Only output value when it changes.
8 Vertical Bar - Parameter separator.
9 Character string to print before variable value
10 Vertical Bar - Parameter separator.
11 Optional Format Flag(s) – See Page 13 for details.
12 Value Format - units and number of decimal places to output
13 Vertical Bar - Parameter separator.
14 Output multiplier – See Page 19 for details.
15 Close Square Bracket – End of formatting parameters.
Variables consist of a Text String enclosed within square brackets e.g. [T]
Formatting the Output Value
The values of the variable are formatted as follows:
{Format Flags} {Field Width} {Decimal Separator} {Decimal Places}
The format flags are optional and only needed by a small number of controllers
they will be described shortly.
Field Width
The Field width represents the minimum number of characters that are output.
The field width is usually set to “1” a value greater than 1 is typically only required if a
controller expects to see a fixed number of characters for the value.
If this is the case, a number greater than 1 can be entered. The number entered will
ensure that that number of characters is output. The number that represents the field width includes
the full floating-point number for the output value, (including the decimal separator character).
13
Decimal Separator
The decimal separator character is almost always just a period character,
but there are some controllers that expect to see a comma character.
(For an example of a post processor that does not use a period character,
see the file: Heidenhain_inch.pp)
Decimal Places
The number of decimal places output following the decimal separator. The values are often set at 3
for controllers operating in Metric, or 4 for controllers operating in Inches.
Optional Format Flags
The output values can be further modified by using the optional format flags.
Format Flags
Flag Function Default (without flag)
- Left justify the output value. Values are right justified.
+ Prefix the output value with a ‘+’ or ‘-‘ Only negative values are prefixed.
0 If value has fewer characters than the set minimum, the
value is prefixed with zeros.
Value is prefixed with blank spaces.
# Value is always output with a separator character
(In practice this would only change the output value if the
value is set to output integer values only).
When output is set to integer only,
separator character is not appended
to value.
14
Default Formatting for Variables
Most variables have a default format; (shown below) to set a different format for a variable, enter
the line below in your post processor and alter the parameters to suit your controller.
VAR LINE_NUMBER = [N|A||1.0]
VAR SPINDLE_SPEED = [S|A||1.0]
VAR FEED_RATE = [F|A||1.0]
VAR PLUNGE_RATE = [FP|A||1.0]
Example: VAR LINE_NUMBER = [N|A|N|1.0] The line number will Always be output. An ‘N’ character
will be inserted before the line number and it will be
output as an integer number
Example: VAR SPINDLE_SPEED = [S|A|S|1.0] The speed will Always be output. An ‘S’ character will
be inserted before the value and it will be output as an
integer number
Example: VAR PLUNGE _RATE= [FP|C|F|1.1|0.01666]
The feed rate will be output with an ‘F’ character
before the value, and will only be output when it
Changes. The value will be output to
1 decimal place.
Note: In this format string there is an
optional extra parameter, this is a value
multiplier. See the note on page 19 for
more details.
Example: VAR FEED _RATE= [F|C|F|1.1|0.01666]
The feed rate will be output with an ‘F’ character
before the value, and will only be output when it
Changes. The value will be output to
1 decimal place.
Note: In this format string there is an
optional extra parameter, this is a value
multiplier. See the note on page 19 for
more details.
15
VAR CUT_RATE = [FC|C ||1.0]
+ Tool position in x,y and z - Defaults
VAR X_POSITION = [X|A| |1.3]
VAR Y_POSITION = [Y|A| |1.3]
VAR Z_POSITION = [Z|A| |1.3]
+ Home tool positions - Defaults
VAR X_HOME_POSITION = [XH|A||1.3]
VAR Y_HOME_POSITION = [YH|A||1.3]
VAR Z_HOME_POSITION = [ZH|A||1.3]
Example: VAR CUT_RATE= [FC|C|F|1.1|0.01666] The feed rate will be output with an ‘F’ character
before the value, and will only be output when it
Changes. The value will be output to
1 decimal place.
Note: In this format string there is an
optional extra parameter, this is a value
multiplier. See the note on page 19 for
more details.
Example: VAR Y_HOME_POSITION = [YH|A|Y|1.3] The position value will be output with a ‘Y’
character before the value, the position will
Always be output, and will be output to 3
decimal places, this would typically be
suitable for a control that requires metric
output. If you wished to output the values to
4 decimal places as would be more typical
for a controller operating in inches. You
would format the line as follows.
VAR Y_HOME_POSITION = [YH|A|Y|1.4]
Example: VAR X_POSITION = [X|A|X|1.3] The position value will be output with an ‘X’ character
before the value, the position will Always be output,
and will be output to 3 decimal places, this would
typically be suitable for a control that requires metric
output. If you wished to output the values to
4 decimal places as would be more typical for a
controller operating in inches. You would format the
line as follows.
VAR X_POSITION = [X|A|X|1.4]
16
+ Safe Z (Rapid clearance) height - Defaults
VAR SAFE_Z_HEIGHT = [SAFEZ|A||1.3]
+ Arc Output Variables - Defaults
The following methods of defining arcs are available, the appropriate
definition should be chosen to match that used by your controller.
Check your control documentation for details.
VAR ARC_START_X_POSITION = [ArcStartX|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_START_Y_POSITION = [ArcStartY|A| |1.3]
Example: VAR SAFE_Z_HEIGHT = [SAFEZ |A|Z|1.3|-1]
The value will be output with a ‘Z’ character before it,
the value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places, this would typically be suitable for a
control that requires metric output. If you wished to
output the values to 4 decimal places as would be
more typical for a controller operating in inches. You
would format the line as follows.
VAR SAFE_Z_HEIGHT = [SAFEZ |A|Z|1.4|- 1]
Note: In this format string there is an
optional extra parameter, this is a value
multiplier. See the note on page 19 for
more details.
Example: VAR ARC_START_Y_POSITION = [ArcStartY|A|Y|1.3]
The value will be output with a ‘Y’ character before it,
the value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places, this would typically be suitable for a
control that requires metric output. If you wished to
output the values to 4 decimal places as would be more
typical for a controller operating in inches. You would
format the line as follows.
VAR ARC_START_Y_POSITION = [ArcStartY|A|Y|1.4]
17
VAR ARC_CENTRE_I_INC_POSITION = [I|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_CENTRE_J_INC_POSITION = [J|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_CENTRE_I_ABS_POSITION = [IA|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_CENTRE_J_ABS_POSITION = [JA|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_MID_X_POSITION = [ArcMidX|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_MID_Y_POSITION = [ArcMidY|A| |1.3]
Example: VAR ARC_CENTRE_J_INC_POSITION = [J|A|J|1.3]
The value will be output with a ‘J’ character before it, the
value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places, this would typically be suitable for a control
that requires metric output. If you wished to output the
values to 4 decimal places as would be more typical for a
controller operating in inches. You would format the line as
follows:
VAR ARC_CENTRE_J_INC_POSITION = [J|A|J|1.4]
Example: VAR ARC_CENTRE_I_ABS_POSITION = [IA|A|I|1.3|-1]
The value will be output with an ‘I’ character before it, the
value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places, this would typically be suitable for a control
that requires metric output. If you wished to output the
values to 4 decimal places as would be more typical for a
controller operating in inches. You would format the line as
follows:
VAR ARC_CENTRE_I_ABS_POSITION = [IA|A|I|1.4|- 1]
Note: In this format string there is an
optional extra parameter, this is a value
multiplier. See the note on page 19 for
more details.
Example: VAR ARC_ MID_X_POSITION = [ArcMidX|A|X|1.3|-1]
The value will be output with an ‘X’ character before it, the
value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places, this would typically be suitable for a control
that requires metric output. If you wished to output the
values to 4 decimal places as would be more typical for a
controller operating in inches. You would format the line as
follows:
VAR ARC_ MID_X_POSITION = [ArcMidX|A|X|1.4|- 1]
18
VAR ARC_MID_X_INC_POSITION = [ArcMidXI|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_MID_Y_INC_POSITION = [ArcMidYI|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_RADIUS = [Radius|A| |1.3]
VAR ARC_ANGLE = [Angle|A| |1.3]
Example: VAR ARC_MID_Y_INC_POSITION = [ArcMidYI|A|Y|1.3|-1]
The value will be output with a ‘Y’ character before it, the
value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places, this would typically be suitable for a control
that requires metric output. If you wished to output the
values to 4 decimal places as would be more typical for a
controller operating in inches. You would format the line as
follows:
VAR ARC_MID_Y_INC_POSITION = [ArcMidYI|A|Y|1.4|- 1]
Note: In this format string there is an
optional extra parameter, this is a value
multiplier. See the note on page 19 for
more details.
Example: VAR ARC_RADIUS = [Radius|A|R|1.3]
The value will be output with an ‘R’ character before it, the
value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places, this would typically be suitable for a control
that requires metric output. If you wished to output the
values to 4 decimal places as would be more typical for a
controller operating in inches. You would format the line as
follows:
VAR ARC_RADIUS = [Radius|A|R|1.4]
Example: VAR ARC_ANGLE = [Angle|A||1.3|40]
The value will be output with no characters before it, the
value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places.
Note: In this format string there is an
optional extra parameter, this is a value
multiplier. See the note on page 19 for
more details. Multiplier Value
19 for more details.
19
Material Block information – Defaults
VAR X_LENGTH = [XLENGTH|A| |1.3]
VAR Y_LENGTH = [YLENGTH|A| |1.3]
VAR Z_LENGTH = [ZLENGTH|A| |1.3]
VAR X_MIN = [XMIN|A| |1.3]
VAR Y_MIN = [YMIN|A| |1.3]
VAR Z_MIN = [ZMIN|A| |1.3]
VAR X_MAX = [XMAX|A| |1.3]
VAR Y_MAX = [YMAX|A| |1.3]
VAR Z_MAX = [ZMAX|A| |1.3]
VAR X_MIN = [XMIN|A| |1.3]
Multiplier Value
The multiplier value is used to multiply the value to output a different value.
Common reasons for wishing to do this are:
To convert the default output of an Inch post processor, from inches per minute to inches per
second, (Multiply by 0.01666).
To convert the default output of a Metric post processor, from mm per minute to mm per
second, (Multiply by 0.0166).
To make positive values negative (and vice versa), (Multiply by -1).
To convert the output of an arc angle from radians to degrees, (Multiply by 57.2957795).
To multiply or divide by a fixed factor (I.E. produce 1:4 scale model, Multiply by 0.25)
Example: VAR X_MIN = [XMIN|A|X|1.3]
The value will be output with an X character before it, the
value will Always be output, and will be output to
3 decimal places.
20
Post Processor Blocks
HEADER
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output at the start of the file
+---------------------------------------------------
begin HEADER
“Commands”
The header is the location for the instructions that are output once,
at the start of the file, these generally setup modal commands for the controller.
For example, the Header might contain a command to display the filename on the controller and a
series of “G-Codes” to set the machine up, for instance G20 to tell the control that the moves are in
inches, or G21 to tell the control that the moves are in millimetres.
Variables that you might wish to be within the header section,
could include:
Information about the Material Block
Minimum extent in X = [XMIN] Minimum extent in Y = [YMIN] Minimum extent in Z = [ZMIN]
Maximum extent in X = [XMAX] Maximum extent in Y = [YMAX] Maximum extent in Z = [ZMAX]
Length of material in X = [XLENGTH]"
Length of material in Y = [YLENGTH]"
Depth of material in Z = [ZLENGTH]"
Home Position Information
Home X = [XH] Home Y = [YH] Home Z = [ZH]
Rapid clearance gap or Safe Z = [SAFEZ]
Details of the first tool to be used.
Tool Number = [T]"
Tool name = [TOOLNAME]
Initial cutting speeds
Feed Rate used for cutting and plunging into the material = [F]
Feed Rate whilst tool is Cutting the material = [FC]
Feed Rate whilst tool is plunging into the material = [FP]
Actual values depend on the UNITS set (see Global File Settings)
Defaults are either MM/Minute or Inches/Minute, but the output can be changed to suit by setting
the appropriate “VAR FEED_RATE” formatting.
Spindle Speed
Spindle Speed = R.P.M.
21
TOOLCHANGE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output at toolchange
+---------------------------------------------------
begin TOOLCHANGE
“Commands”
Commands that are output when a change of tool is required.
Variables and commands that might be used include:
Previous Tool Number = [TP]
Tool Number = [T]
Tool name = [TOOLNAME]
Toolpath Name = [TOOLPATH_NAME]
Toolpath Pathname = [PATHNAME]
Toolpath File Name = [TP_FILENAME]
Toolpath File Directory = [TP_DIR]
Toolpath Extension = [TP_EXT]
Spindle Speed = R.P.M.
M3 M Code often used to turn spindle on (Clockwise rotation).
M5 M Code often used to turn spindle off.
NEW_SEGMENT
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for a new segment ( new toolpath with current toolnumber)
+---------------------------------------------------
begin NEW_SEGMENT
“Commands”
For an example of a NEW_SEGEMENT section, see the file: Mach2_3_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp
Commands that are output when a new toolpath uses the currently selected tool, but
perhaps a different spindle speed is required or the machine requires additional instructions.
Any commands that are used in the NEW_SEGMENT section should not need to be included
within the TOOLCHANGE section as a tool-change will also automatically call the instructions
in the NEW_SEGMENT section.
Variables that are commonly used include.
Spindle Speed = R.P.M.
M3 M Code often used to turn spindle on (Clockwise rotation).
M5 M Code often used to turn spindle off.
INITIAL_RAPID_MOVE
+ Commands output for Initial rapid move
begin INITIAL_RAPID_MOVE
“Commands”
For an example of a INITIAL_RAPID_MOVE section, see the file: Saom_OSAI_Arc_inch.pp
Commands that are output when the very first rapid move is made. A Section not used for most
posts, but useful if the very first rapid move, needs to output different information to subsequent
rapid moves.
This section is sometimes required for HPGL variants.
22
RAPID_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for rapid moves
+---------------------------------------------------
begin RAPID_MOVE
“Commands”
Commands that are output when rapid moves are required.
FIRST_FEED_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for first feed rate moves.
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FIRST_FEED_MOVE
“Commands”
This section is commonly used where controllers require that the Feed Rate is
set at the first feed move, this rate would then be used for subsequent cut moves.
For an example of a FIRST_FEED_MOVE section, see the file: Axyz_Arcs_ATC_inch.pp
FEED_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for feed rate moves
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FEED_MOVE
“Commands”
Used to output information required at every move, or all feed moves except for the First Feed Move,
if a FIRST_FEED_MOVE section is present within the post processor.
.
FIRST_CW_ARC_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for the first clockwise arc move
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FIRST_CW_ARC_MOVE
“Commands”
Similar to the FIRST_FEED_MOVE section, but for clockwise arc segments.
This section is commonly used where controllers require that the Feed Rate is set for the first arc
segment, this rate would then be used for subsequent arc moves in the same direction.
For an example of a FIRST_CW_ARC_MOVE section, see the file: Centroid_Arcs_inch.pp
23
CW_ARC_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for clockwise arc moves.
+---------------------------------------------------
begin CW_ARC_MOVE
“Commands”
Similar to the FEED_MOVE section, but for clockwise arc segments.
For an example of a CW_ARC_MOVE section, see the file: Centroid_Arcs_inch.pp
FIRST_CCW_ARC_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for the first counter-clockwise arc move
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FIRST_CCW_ARC_MOVE
“Commands”
Similar to the FIRST_FEED_MOVE section, but for counter-clockwise arc segments.
This section is commonly used where controllers require that the Feed Rate is set for the first arc
segment, this rate would then be used for subsequent arc moves in the same direction.
For an example of a FIRST_CCW_ARC_MOVE section, see the file: Centroid_Arcs_inch.pp
CCW_ARC_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for counter-clockwise arc moves.
+---------------------------------------------------
begin CCW_ARC_MOVE
“Commands”
Similar to the FEED_MOVE section, but for counter-clockwise arc segments.
For an example of a CCW_ARC_MOVE section, see the file: Centroid_Arcs_inch.pp
24
FOOTER
The footer is the section of the post processor for instructions that are sent to the controller at the
end of a file. These might be instructions to return the tool to the home position, switch the spindle
off or switch the power off to the drives.
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output at the end of the file
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FOOTER
“Commands”
Variables that are commonly used include.
G00 [XH] [YH] [ZH] Rapid to X,Y,Z Home position.
M05 M Code often used to turn spindle off.
M30 M Code often used to signify the end of the file.
25
Other less frequently used sections.
FEED_RATE_CHANGE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output when feed rate changes
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FEED_RATE_CHANGE
“Commands”
For an example of a FEED_RATE_CHANGE section, see the file: Gravograph_IS200.pp
Commands that are output when the feed rate is changed.
This section is not often used as many controllers will accept feed rate changes appended to other
instructions, but sometimes used with HPGL variants.
FIRST_PLUNGE_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for the First Plunge Move
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FIRST_PLUNGE_MOVE
“Commands”
For an example of a FIRST_PLUNGE_MOVE section, see the file: Holz-Her_7123_ATC_Arcs_mm.pp
This section is often used on machines that do not fully support simultaneous 3D movement,
for example the Z Axis cannot travel as fast as the X & Y Axis.
Another use of this section might be to include commands that you wish to output whenever the first
plunge move occurs.
For example, commands to switch on a plasma torch.
Multiple plunges would normally only be output within a ramping move, so this command would be
useful for controls that automatically rapid between cuts and where instructions such as revised
speeds and feed need to be specified on the first plunge move and these instructions are not required
for subsequent plunge moves within the ramping operation.
PLUNGE_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for Plunge Moves
+---------------------------------------------------
begin PLUNGE_MOVE
“Commands”
For an example of a PLUNGE_MOVE section, see the file: Burny_arc_inch.pp
This section is often used on machines that do not fully support simultaneous 3D movement,
for example the Z Axis cannot travel as fast as the X & Y Axis.
Another use of this section might be to include commands that you wish to output whenever a
plunge move occurs.
For example, commands to switch on a plasma torch.
26
RETRACT_MOVE
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for Retract Moves
+---------------------------------------------------
begin RETRACT_MOVE
“Commands”
For an example of a RETRACT _MOVE section, see the file: Burny_arc_inch.pp
A use of this section might be to include commands to switch off a plasma torch.
27
Special Characters
Most characters can be output within the confines of the post processor output statements; however,
certain characters have special meaning within the post processor configuration files and cannot be
output directly.
These are, the Square brackets [ ], and the double quote character “
It may be the case that you need to output one of these characters within your output file.
If you wish to output one of these characters, you can do so by enclosing the decimal equivalent of
the ASCII value of the special character that you wish to output, within square brackets, as shown
below. This method can also be used to insert any ASCII value, even non-printable characters.
[91] Outputs a left hand square bracket.
[93] Outputs a right hand square bracket.
[34] Outputs a double quote character.
[13] Outputs a carriage return.
[10] Outputs a line feed.
For an example of a file that uses special characters, please see: Biesse_Rover_Arcs_mm.pp
28
Editing a Vectric Post Processor – An example: Adding tool-change
commands.
For the majority of cases, the quickest and easiest way of producing a customised post processor to
suit your controller, will be to edit an existing post processor.
To do this, first create a simple test file that you can use to test the output of your post processor.
A simple file might consist of a line, and two circles. Produce a shallow cutting profile toolpaths for
each of the shapes, machining “On” the line, “Inside” one of the circles and “Outside” the other
circle.
Save a toolpath using your base post processor and take a look at it using your favourite text editor.
Below is an example of the test file posted using the "G-Code Arcs (inch) (*.tap)" post processor
The example below is displayed using the popular Notepad ++ editor.
For our example, we will add a tool-change section to this post processor.
First, make a safe copy of the post processor that you are customising.
If you open the post processor that you are editing in a text editor, you will be able to see the lines
of text within the post processor that formatted the output of your test file.
T1M6
G17
G0Z4.5000
G0X0.0000Y0.0000S12000M3
G0X2.4567Y7.8342Z0.2500
G1Z-0.0500F5.0
G3X3.3784Y8.7559I0.0000J0.9218F66.0
G3X2.4567Y9.6777I-0.9218J0.0000
G3X1.5349Y8.7559I0.0000J-0.9218
G3X2.4567Y7.8342I0.9218J0.0000
G0Z0.2500
G0X2.4567Y6.0000Z0.2500
G1Z-0.0500F5.0
G1X9.5433F66.0
G0Z0.2500
G0X8.4966Y3.2441Z0.2500
G1Z-0.0197F5.0
G2X9.5433Y4.2908I1.0468J0.0000F66.0
G2X10.5901Y3.2441I0.0000J-1.0468
G2X9.5433Y2.1973I-1.0468J0.0000
G2X8.4966Y3.2441I0.0000J1.0468
G0Z0.2500
G0Z4.5000
G0X0.0000Y0.0000
M30
29
The post processor configuration files are located in the “PostP” folder for the application. The post
processor configuration files have a “.PP” file extension.
The PostP folder can be reached from within the application, by clicking
“File > Open Application Data Folder” from the main menu of the application.
To add a Tool Change section to the post processor, you will need to consult the documentation for
the control of the machine tool (or control software).
For this example, we will assume that the instructions that you need to add to perform a tool change
for your particular machine tool are as follows:
M05 Instruction to turn off the spindle prior to tool change.
M0 Instruction to return existing tool to tool holder.
M06TTool_Number n Instruction to select new tool Tool_Number n
G43HTool_Number n Instruction for control to use Tool length offset for tool n
Sxxx M03 Set spindle speed to xxx; Turn on spindle (clockwise rotation).
T1M6 HEADER
G17
G0Z4.5000
G0X0.0000Y0.0000S12000M3
G0X2.4567Y7.8342Z0.2500 RAPID_MOVE
G1Z-0.0500F5.0 FIRST_FEED_MOVE (plunge rate)
G3X3.3784Y8.7559I0.0000J0.9218F66.0 FIRST_CCW_ARC_MOVE
G3X2.4567Y9.6777I-0.9218J0.0000
G3X1.5349Y8.7559I0.0000J-0.9218 CCW_ARC_MOVE
G3X2.4567Y7.8342I0.9218J0.0000
G0Z0.2500 Automatic retract move
G0X2.4567Y6.0000Z0.2500 RAPID_MOVE
G1Z-0.0500F5.0 FIRST_FEED_MOVE (plunge rate)
G1X9.5433F66.0 FIRST_FEED_MOVE (feed rate)
G0Z0.2500 Automatic retract move
G0X8.4966Y3.2441Z0.2500 RAPID_MOVE
G1Z-0.0197F5.0 FIRST_FEED_MOVE (plunge rate)
G2X9.5433Y4.2908I1.0468J0.0000F66.0 FIRST_CW_ARC_MOVE
G2X10.5901Y3.2441I0.0000J-1.0468
G2X9.5433Y2.1973I-1.0468J0.0000 CW_ARC_MOVE
G2X8.4966Y3.2441I0.0000J1.0468
G0Z0.2500 Automatic retract move
G0Z4.5000
G0X0.0000Y0.0000 FOOTER
M30
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output at the start of the file
+---------------------------------------------------
begin HEADER
"T1M6"
"G17"
"G0[ZH]"
"G0[XH][YH]M3"
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for rapid moves
+---------------------------------------------------
begin RAPID_MOVE
"G0[X][Y][Z]"
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for the first feed rate move
+---------------------------------------------------
begin FIRST_FEED_MOVE
"G1[X][Y][Z][F]"
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for feed rate moves
30
Edit the post processor using your favourite text editor.
If the operating system on your computer is Microsoft Vista and User Access Control is enabled,
copy or move the Post Processor that you are editing from the PostP folder to a folder below your
user area.
The first thing that you should edit within the file is the History Comment section; So that you have a
record of the changes.
Next edit the POST_NAME to reflect that this post processor outputs automatic tool change (ATC)
commands, the new post will be displayed as “G-Code ATC Arcs (inch)(*.tap)” in the list of post
processors.
+================================================
+
+ Vectric machine output configuration file
+
+================================================
+
+ History
+
+ Who When What
+ ======== ========== ===========================
+ Tony 14/07/2006 Written
+ Mark 31/05/2009 Added Tool Change Section
+================================================
POST_NAME = "G-Code Arcs (inch) (*.tap)"
FILE_EXTENSION = "tap"
UNITS = "INCHES"
+------------------------------------------------
+ Line terminating characters
+------------------------------------------------
LINE_ENDING = "[13][10]"
+------------------------------------------------
+ Block numbering
+------------------------------------------------
LINE_NUMBER_START = 0
LINE_NUMBER_INCREMENT = 10
LINE_NUMBER_MAXIMUM = 999999
+================================================
+
+ Formating for variables
+
+=======================================
+================================================
+
+ Vectric machine output configuration file
+
+================================================
+
+ History
+
+ Who When What
+ ======== ========== ===========================
+ Tony 14/07/2006 Written
+ Mark 31/05/2009 Added Tool Change Section
+================================================
POST_NAME = "G-Code ATC Arcs (inch) (*.tap)"
FILE_EXTENSION = "tap"
UNITS = "INCHES"
31
Next add a Tool Change Section that will include the instructions.
The location of the new section within the file is not important, but a good place to insert it is
between the Header and Rapid Move sections.
Add some comment lines at the top of the new section, (beginning with the + character) to describe
the section and make the file as a whole, easier to read.
Next enter the line “begin TOOLCHANGE” to instruct the post processor that the following
instructions are to be output for every tool-change, (except the initial tool selection, the commands
for these are contained within the header section).
The next step is to enter in the instructions that you require, enclosed within double quote marks.
The “*T+” on the third and fourth instruction lines of our example, will be substituted with the tool
number when the file is post processed; The “*S+” on the fifth line will be substituted with the
spindle speed for the tool.
Finally you will need to save the changes to the file, as you have changed the POST_NAME, save the
file using a new name, for example “GCODE_ATC_Arcs_inch.pp”
If the operating system on your computer is Microsoft Windows 7 or Microsoft Vista and User Access
Control is enabled, copy the file that you have edited back to the “PostP” folder.
To test the new post processor, If the software is running, restart the software.
begin HEADER
"T1M6"
"G17"
"G0[ZH]"
"G0[XH][YH]M3"
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output at toolchange
+---------------------------------------------------
begin TOOLCHANGE
New Tool Change Section
"M05"
"M0"
"M06T[T]"
"G43H[T]"
"M03"
+---------------------------------------------------
+ Commands output for rapid moves
+---------------------------------------------------
begin RAPID_MOVE
"G0[X][Y][Z]"
32
If there are any syntax errors with your post processor, an error similar to the picture below will be
displayed as the software starts, the post processor that you have edited will not appear in the
drop down list of post processor configuration files.
You will need to rectify any errors and restart the software.
If there are no errors displayed when the software is started, open your test file
and save one or more of your test toolpaths.
Select the post processor from the drop down list of post processor configuration and press the
“Save Toolpath(s)” button.
Take a look at the file that you have just saved in a text editor.
If the content of the file looks good, try the file on your machine.
Please take all necessary precautions when running the output from a modified post processor for
the first time.
33
Editing a Vectric Post Processor – An example: Changing the File Extension.
The File extension that is automatically produced by the post processor can be changed
within the “Save As” dialog box, when you click on the “Save Toolpath(s)” button.
However, rather than change the file extension every time. It is more convenient to permanently
change the file extension produced by the post processor.
To do this:
Make a safe copy of the post processor that you wish to edit.
The post processor configuration files are located in the “PostP” folder of the product installation
folder and have a “.PP” file extension.
For Aspire version 2, the default location of the PostP folder is:
“C:\Program Files\Aspire V2.0\PostP” the location of the PostP folder will be different depending on
the product installed and whether the software was installed to a custom location when the
software was installed.
Edit the post processor using your favourite text editor.
If the operating system on your computer is Microsoft Windows 7 or Microsoft Vista and User Access
Control is enabled,
copy or move the Post Processor that you are editing from the PostP folder to a folder below your
user area.
Look for the following two lines within the post processor configuration file that begin with:
POST_NAME =
FILE_EXTENSION =
and alter these accordingly.
For example, if you wished to change the file extension produced by the “G Code ATC (inch)(*.tap)”
post processor from “.tap” to “.nc”
Edit the lines:
From
POST_NAME = "G Code ATC (inch) (*.tap)"
FILE_EXTENSION = "tap"
To
POST_NAME = "G Code ATC (inch) (*.nc)"
FILE_EXTENSION = "nc"
34
Save the changes to your file.
If the operating system on your computer is Microsoft Windows 7 or Microsoft Vista and User Access
Control is enabled, copy the file that you have edited back to the “PostP” folder.
To test the new post processor, If the software is running, restart the software.
If there are any syntax errors with your post processor, an error similar to the picture below will be
displayed as the software starts, the post processor that you have edited will not appear in the
drop down list of post processor configuration files.
You will need to rectify any errors and restart the software.
If there are no errors displayed when the software is started, open your test file
and save one or more of your test toolpaths.
Select the post processor from the drop down list of post processor configuration and press the
“Save Toolpath(s)” button.
Take a look at the file that you have just saved in a text editor.
If the content of the file looks good, try the file on your machine.
Please take all necessary precautions when running the output from a modified post processor for
the first time.
35
Post Processor differences between different Vectric Products.
Not all of the Post Processor sections and variables are supported in all Vectric products.
For the release versions of Vectric products as of October 1st 2009, the following differences apply.
Cut3D (Release 1.025) – Unsupported Commands and Variables
DIRECT_OUTPUT
SUBSTITUTE
TAPE_SPLITTING
RAPID_PLUNGE_TO_STARTZ
ROTARY_WRAP_Y
ROTARY_WRAP_X
begin FIRST_PLUNGE_MOVE [Section]
Variables not supported.
[WRAP_DIA] [X_ORIGIN_POS] [Y_ORIGIN_POS] [Z_ORIGIN] [XY_ORIGIN] [TOOLS_USED]
[TOOLPATH_NOTES] [FILE_NOTES] [TIME] [DATE] [TOOLPATHS_OUTPUT]
PhotoVCarve (Release 1.102) – Unsupported Commands and Variables
All ARC Support commands and variables
DIRECT_OUTPUT
PRINT_DIRECT
SPINDLE_SPEED_RANGE
SUBSTITUTE
TAPE_SPLITTING
RAPID_PLUNGE_TO_STARTZ
ROTARY_WRAP_Y
ROTARY_WRAP_X
begin FIRST_PLUNGE_MOVE [Section]
begin NEW_SEGMENT [Section]
Variables not supported.
[WRAP_DIA] [X_ORIGIN_POS] [Y_ORIGIN_POS] [Z_ORIGIN] [XY_ORIGIN] [TOOLS_USED]
[TOOLPATH_NOTES] [FILE_NOTES] [TIME] [DATE] [TOOLPATHS_OUTPUT]
Cut2D (Release 1.100) – Unsupported Commands and Variables
Tool change commands are accepted but not used by the program.
SUBSTITUTE
TAPE_SPLITTING
RAPID_PLUNGE_TO_STARTZ
ROTARY_WRAP_Y
ROTARY_WRAP_X
begin FIRST_PLUNGE_MOVE [Section]
Variables not supported.
[WRAP_DIA] [X_ORIGIN_POS] [Y_ORIGIN_POS] [Z_ORIGIN] [XY_ORIGIN] [TOOLS_USED]
[TOOLPATH_NOTES] [FILE_NOTES] [TIME] [DATE] [TOOLPATHS_OUTPUT]
36
Tips and Tricks.
1. Always make a safe copy of the post processor that you are editing, in
case you need to start again from scratch.
2. If using a word processor program, such as Microsoft Word, to edit a post processor, make
sure that the file is saved as plain text. The file should not contain formatting information.
3. If editing post processors on a computer that runs Microsoft Windows 7 or Microsoft Vista,
do not edit the files directly within the “Program Files\Product folder\PostP” folder. Always
edit the file within your user area and copy the edited file to “Program Files\Product
folder\PostP”.
4. Use comments when you make changes, a comment is a text that follows a + or a |
character. Comments will not be acted upon by the program but can help in documenting
changes that you have made and make those changes understandable in the future.
5. All Instruction lines must be contained within quote marks.
6. If possible, use a text editor that makes use of line numbers; This will make it easier to debug
the post processor if there are any errors in the file. The program will check the post
processors in the PostP folder when the program starts.
If syntax errors are present in the file, an error message will be displayed, showing the line
number of the first error encountered.
7. Once you have successfully edited a post processor, make a safe copy of it.
If you install a later version of the Vectric product that you are using, remember to copy your
modified post processor to the PostP folder of the new version of the software.
And select your modified post processor, the first time that you save a toolpath,
(The software will remember your selection for subsequent actions).
8. If you install another version of the software or you upgrade the version of the software,
remember to copy your safe copies of your edited post processors to the PostP folder of the
new version. Ensure that you select the correct post processor the first time that you
post process a file using the new version of the software.
37
Post Processor Naming Conventions.
Within the post processors that ship with the products,
you will see the following terms or abbreviations used within the
POST_NAME
Arc or Arcs = The post processor will output true arcs within the
design as Arc moves, (G2,G3,Radius of Arc etc.).
Inc = Arcs are output with centre coordinates incremental to the
last move.
Abs = Arcs are output with absolute coordinate values.
ATC = The post processor will output Automatic Tool Change
(ATC) commands.
WY = Wrapped out output post processor – Y values wrapped around
X axis
WX = Wrapped out output post processor – X values wrapped around
Y axis
TSnumber = Tape Splitting post processor.
An optional number is the maximum number
of lines that will be output within a single file. Files that exceed this
number of lines will be split into multiple files.
(See Tape Splitting Support for more details).
(mm) = The post processor units are Metric.
(inch) = The post processor units are English (Imperial) inches.
(*.xyz) = The file extension that the output file will be created with.